What is NLP?

Neuro-Linguistic Programming, or NLP for short, was originally an attempt to describe an extensive body of insights and skills regarding the interplay between mind (neuro) and language (linguistic) and how their interplay – or patterns - affect our body and behaviour (programming). 

The neurological system regulates how our bodies function, language determines how we interact and communicate with ourselves and other people and our programming (which is largely subconscious) determines the kinds of models of the world we create.

NLP as an approach to communication, personal development, and psychotherapy was originally developed by Richard Bandler, John Grinder and associates in America in the 1970s. It is an influential field which has been developed in various streams and specialisations for many different applications since. 

NLP is often described as the “new” science of achievement or success. However it has now been around for nearly 45 years.

Right from the start, NLP explorers have studied or ‘modelled’ the behaviour and thinking styles of particularly effective and successful people in therapy, personal development, business, education, sales and sport. It may be viewed as an ‘owners manual’ on how to use your brain.  At school and university we learned wonderful things like history and geography and maths. But, we may not have learned much about how to feel good or to have great relationships.

NLP techniques and insights assist people to become more in charge of their thoughts and feelings.

NLP is a dynamic, ever-growing collection of information and insights into how we human beings function. This is backed up by a huge range of techniques that can enable us to improve how we think, behave and feel – and to assist others in doing the same.